A frequent favourite in Trail tests, the Elite uses Rohan’s own fabric, Barricade Elite, which offers performance that is equal to the best in the industry. I’ve been using the jacket for several years and find that on the hill it is just as impressive. At only 334g the Elite packs in a host of useful features for heading onto the hills. The body is short like most lightweights and has an exposed front zip of the more water-resistant variety with a very stiff internal baffle to keep any leaks under control. There are an excellent pair of chest-mounted pockets, which aren’t mesh-lined, so they keep water out more readily than most. These pockets are huge and they’re ideal for stashing a map, guidebook or just for warming hands. The Rohan Elite’s hood can be rolled down and secured at the collar in mild conditions, but when the heavens open the stiffened peak and excellent fit and movement will really be appreciated. The hood drawcords extend around the outside, rather than through internal channels, so they look a bit messy, but they work well. The fabric feels a little like paper, but so far I haven’t torn my older version of this jacket, although I think it’s necessary to treat it a little more carefully than some heavier models.